By Sohaib Shams
Martha Stewart has claimed that Today show co-host Craig Melvin is indirectly responsible for her controversial Halloween costume, which drew widespread criticism for mocking homelessness. The 85-year-old lifestyle mogul explained the incident during an appearance at the CrossCountry Mortgage Sales Rally in Orlando, Florida.
Costume origins
Stewart said she had planned to wear a white sweater with an American flag and an Olympics hat for a Friday segment on Today, but Melvin spilled chocolate on the sweater while dressed as Snoop Dogg. With only ten minutes before her Halloween event, she improvised a "bum" or "hobo" costume, complete with a sign reading "I am hungry. Please help!!"
Backlash and apologies
After posting and quickly deleting photos of the costume, Stewart faced accusations of being "tone deaf." She initially told NBC News the costume was intended to raise awareness about homelessness, a cause she supports through charitable work. Days later, she issued a second apology acknowledging the costume was insensitive and not funny, admitting her first statement did not go far enough.
Stewart, whose net worth is estimated at over $400 million, said she remains committed to supporting charities that combat homelessness.
